When to Plant Blueberries

Cultivars

• Southern highbush blueberry cultivars, such as Jewel, Jubilee and Emerald, have low-chill requirements and are frequently planted in the warmer areas of California and the Pacific Northwest. Northern Highbush cultivars such as Aurora, Bluecrop and Bluejay prefer northern climates with cold winters. Half-highbush varieties are lower-growing hybrids that perform well in extreme snow conditions. They have lower fruit production but high-quality taste. Cultivars are chosen to come to maturity in early to late summer to provide a continual supply of mature fruit.

Location

• Blueberries grow best in a sunny location. They tolerate partial shade but produce fewer blossoms and fruit. Blueberries should not be planted near trees or crowded by other shrubs. Blueberry bushes live 30 to 50 years, so it is wise to give them adequate space to spread out. Good air circulation helps prevent fungal diseases. Highbush blueberries need 4 to 6 feet between plants, and the smaller half-highbush require 2 to 3 feet. Blueberry bushes come into full maturity in their fifth or sixth year, producing 5 to 10 pounds of fruit per bush.

Soil

• Blueberries require slightly acidic soil with a pH level of 4.0 to 5.5. Organic compost or peat moss used as a soil additive lowers the pH factor to the acceptable level. Blueberries need well-draining garden loam soil high in organic matter content to thrive. They are susceptible to root rot in heavy clay-like soil. Soil can be amended as soon as the ground can be worked in the early spring. A soil test kit available from the garden center helps determine the correct pH level.

Ongoing Care

• A mulch layer spread in diameter around the blueberry plant 4 inches from the main trunk prevents weed growth. Mulch materials such as pine needles, dry leaves, shredded bark or mature organic compost also help the soil retain water and provide nutrients to the root system. Fertilizing twice a year in early spring and fall with cottonseed meal, blood meal or all-purpose organic compost replenishes the soil with nutrients lost to normal growth processes. Blueberries have a shallow, fibrous root system that becomes stressed when dried out by hot weather. Water when topsoil is dry to the touch, or weekly during hot weather.